P67 Memory Kit Roundup Review

Introduction:

Intel's new Sandy Bridge lineup is out after a slight hiccup. With the latest processor, overclocking has changed drastically from what we have done in the past because of the BCLK limitations imposed on the Sandy Bridge processor and subsystems. This means defined speeds with a little bit of overclocking at each memory multiplier for additional speed. The other option to increase memory performance is to tighten up the latencies to get as much advantage as you can at each stop on the multiplier ladder. It's different and that's what makes the trial and error testing fun. What I have today are a group of memory kits designed for use with the Intel P67 platform. These kits range from a rating of 1600MHz up to 2133MHz and include densities from 4GB to 8GB. I will be looking at Corsair's Vengeance series, Kingston's new HyperX Grey Genesis modules, G.Skill's RipJaw X and last but not least, Patriot's Division 2 series modules. Each set of modules has a unique look and heat spreader design. It will be interesting to see how 4GB and 8GB sets perform on this latest platform when the modules are pushed. Let's see what they have to offer.

Closer Look:

To start off this show I will look at the Corsair Vengeance 8GB kit. Why Corsair first you ask ? Well they come first alphabetically! The Vengeance series come in a retail box that shows the modules installed in a system on the front panel with the system compatibility listing on the bottom right showing these modules are at home in both Intel and AMD systems. The capacity of the kit is shown on the bottom and top right hand corners of the box. The back panel shows the modules in the packaging with the SKU and model number of the kit on the bar code tag on the rear panel.

Pulling the modules out of the box shows of the unique look of the Corsair Vengeance heat spreader that give these modules their name. This design is a departure from the look of the Dominator lineup that is refreshing with its aggressive looks. This set of modules carry part number CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9. This part number shows that I have an 8GB set of modules in a 4 x 2GB configuration that are rated to run at 1600MHz with latencies of 9-9-9-24 using a low 1.5v. As a part designed to work with Intel's P67 platform, these modules come with an X.M.P. profile for easily setting these modules up in the BIOS. Of course these modules come with Corsair's Limited Lifetime warranty.

The first thing you notice when you pick up this set of modules (besides the looks) is the lack of weight when compared to the Dominator lineup. The Vengeance modules use a much different heat sink design with a two piece stamped aluminum setup. These two sides are held on with thermal tape and keep the heat sinks securely attached. This design is slightly shorter than the standard Dominator equipped modules at 2.07 vs. 2.25 inches tall. The tall design puts the fins in the airstream flowing into the CPU allowing the modules to remain cool when in operation.

With their good looks, these modules should look right at home in any build. The key is how will they perform with the large memory multiplier spread on the P67 platform.